Ups and Downs
All we have is now. Right?
What a week!
Sometimes Friday arrives, and you realize that you're more mentally exhausted than you thought. This has been a week of ups and downs in our house. Like many of you, I am buoyed by the U.S. election results this week. Lately, everything I read, hear, and watch suggests that the Democratic Party's brand is in tatters. These recent election wins show that Americans are not only opposed to Trump’s terrible agenda but are also exercising their right to vote. That’s how democracy works, and I’m glad to see the system holding up. Let’s keep it going.
I also found out that an old friend of mine has been diagnosed with a serious illness. This probably happens to most of us if we live long enough. Life throws these curveballs, and they can bring you down if you're not careful. So, it's been a roller coaster week, if you know what I mean. It’s a lot to handle, and I know many of you can relate. That’s life, right?
Of course, the truth is, all we have is the present moment. It’s easy to forget that, but comforting to keep in mind. We spent last night cozied up on the sofa in our pajamas, sipping hot tea, and watching YouTube videos. Eventually, we came across this one from The Big Think, Harvard psychoanalyst Robert Waldinger explaining how accepting impermanence can end the struggle to “fix” our lives. It was just what we needed and is worth watching when you have some free time.
So, I’m ending the week in an introspective mood. I plan to take a short break from writing and wanted to leave you with something beautiful before I go. Are you familiar with photographer Siân Davey? As it turns out, Siân spent fifteen years as a psychotherapist before switching to photography full-time. We caught up on a video call a few years ago, and she was one of the most soulful people I’ve ever met. I spent some time looking at her photographs again this morning, and it helped. Pictures are funny like that — sometimes they can lift your spirits.
When you have some time, check out Siân’s website. These images are from her series, The Garden, which is an incredible body of work. I don’t own it, but I can imagine that The Garden book is beautiful. If you’re looking for something new, you might consider getting a copy.
I’ll leave you with this: a short film about Siân and her photography — Enjoy ;)
That’s all for now, friends. I hope you’re taking good care of yourselves wherever you are in the world. Thanks again for looking. I appreciate you. Be well!
Andy, sorry you're having some anxiety about life with all its ups and downs. I think you're doing the right thing by checking out for a while and spending time with family and your thoughts.
I loved the youtube vid by the zen teacher. Very helpful and inspiring.
I'm about to turn 72 and finally realizing that nothing is permanent. This fact helps me deal with our current administration. Its all about getting to the next chapter.
Keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing Siân’s work Andy — such sensitive portraits of people and place. Lots of heavy and dark on a variety of fronts these days. Good to take care of yourself and thanks for putting care out into the world as well.